Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Preparing the Lasagna Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Making the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion becomes translucent. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, and dried oregano to the skillet. Stir well to combine and simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Preparing the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Layering the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Arrange three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread one-third of the cheese mixture over the noodles. Repeat the process by adding a layer of sauce, noodles, and cheese mixture two more times.
Step 5: Baking the Lasagna
Cover the lasagna dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the cheese on top turns golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut it into individual portions and serve it hot. Garnish with some fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your homemade layered lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad.
Now that you have a step-by-step guide on how to make layered lasagna, it’s time to put your culinary skills to the test. Gather the ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy the delicious outcome of your efforts. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, lasagna is always a crowd-pleaser. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to make the perfect layered lasagna!